SSAT Middle Level Reading

A subject designed to help students master reading comprehension skills needed for the SSAT Middle Level test.

Understanding Main IdeasIdentifying Supporting DetailsMaking Inferences
Analyzing Author’s Purpose and ToneUnderstanding Vocabulary in ContextComparing and Contrasting Information
Applying Reading Skills to Science TextsReading for Everyday DecisionsUnderstanding Nonfiction and Fiction Differences
Time Management During the TestElimination Techniques for Multiple ChoiceCareful Reading and Note-Taking
Understanding Main I...Identifying Supporti...Making InferencesAnalyzing Author’s P...Understanding Vocabu...Comparing and Contra...Applying Reading Ski...Reading for Everyday...Understanding Nonfic...Time Management Duri...Elimination Techniqu...Careful Reading and ...
Advanced Topics

Analyzing Author’s Purpose and Tone

Why Did the Author Write This?

Every passage has a purpose—maybe to inform, entertain, persuade, or explain. Figuring this out is key to understanding the text.

Common purposes include:

  • To inform: Give facts or teach something
  • To entertain: Tell a story or amuse
  • To persuade: Convince the reader of something

What is Tone?

Tone is the author’s attitude or feeling about the topic. It can be serious, playful, excited, or even sarcastic!

How to Detect Purpose and Tone

  • Look for word choices and phrases.
  • Think about how the passage makes you feel.
  • Watch for clues in the introduction and conclusion.

Why This Helps

Understanding purpose and tone helps you answer tricky SSAT questions and appreciate the text even more.

Examples

  • A passage using words like 'exciting' and 'dangerous' might have an adventurous tone.

  • If a passage gives lots of facts about whales, the purpose is likely to inform.

In a Nutshell

Discover why the author wrote the passage and how they feel about the topic.

Key Terms

Author's Purpose
The reason why an author writes a passage.
Tone
The author's attitude toward the subject.
Next
Understanding Vocabulary in Context